Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its next model, the EQE SUV, as part of its ambitious electric car aspirations, coupled with a bonus high-performance AMG variant. The new models’ highlights include slick aerodynamics, a massive 90.6 kWh battery, and very rapid 0-62MPH timings on the AMG variant.
Mercedes describes the EQE SUV as a “multipurpose derivative of the newly released EQE upmarket car.” As a result, it seems to be an SUV version of the EQE, while being 3.5 inches shorter than the sedan. It’s around the same size as the EQ-B and EQS SUVs.
It’s one of the most aerodynamic SUVs on the market, with a remarkably low coefficient of drag of 0.26 — even with the running boards. Along with the big 90.6 kWh battery, this contributes to a projected WLTP range of 342 miles (likely less on the EPA scale). In its exceedingly lengthy news announcement, Mercedes does not discuss power or performance on the normal EQE model, instead focusing on battery efficiency, thermal cooling, energy recovery, noise and vibration comfort, and other topics.
The inside is made up of a combination of natural and synthetic materials, such as NeoTex and leather. A curved Hyperscreen in the middle includes three different displays for the infotainment system, car controls, and more. More streaming services (Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music) have now been incorporated into the MBUX infotainment system, according to the carmaker. There is also a front passenger display, which allows the front passenger to watch television without interrupting the driver.
The AMG variant is Mercedes’ first performance SUV, amplifying everything about the ordinary EQE. The front and rear motors produce 617 horsepower or up to 677 with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package’s boost function. The Race Start option allows you to apply full power to the wheels (complete with noises generated inside and outside the car), allowing you to accelerate from 0 to 62 MPH in 3.5 seconds.
The AMG also has an AMG-adapted air suspension, decreased ride height options for Sport and Sport+ modes, an active anti-roll bar, carbon-ceramic front brakes, and rear-axle steering as standard.
Exterior features include digital headlights that reflect the Mercedes and AMG emblems when the car is turned off, huge 21 and 22-inch wheels, and an AMG logo on the hood instead of the standard Mercedes logo. Inside, fortunate purchasers have four interior choices to select from, including leather seats as standard. Custom AMG graphics are also included on the Hyperscreen, as well as a performance readout in the central display.
More information about the EQE, including engine choices, will be released closer to the vehicle’s release. Mercedes-Benz did not provide price or availability information but did state that manufacturing of the basic EQE SUV would begin in December at its US site in Alabama. Unlike the EQS SUV, which begins at $100,000, the EQE SUV may be able to fall below the $80,000 level and qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit.